In a recent city council meeting, officials discussed the authorization for the city manager to enter contracts for the purchase of 105 acre-feet of water rights, aimed at bolstering the city's water supply for future development. The proposed contracts include a purchase of 75 acre-feet currently leased to the San Antonio Water System (SAWS) for two years, and an additional 30 acre-feet that would be available for immediate use.

The total cost for the water rights is estimated at approximately $1.38 million, with funding sourced from previously approved budget allocations. Council members expressed concerns regarding the high price of the water rights, particularly in light of ongoing drought conditions. One council member highlighted that the proposed purchase price of $11,000 per acre-foot significantly exceeds current market rates, which range from $410 to $800 per acre-foot depending on the source.

Debate ensued over the necessity of the purchase, with some council members advocating for a more cautious approach. They suggested exploring alternative options, such as negotiating with SAWS for potential water sales, before committing to the purchase. The council ultimately decided to table the decision, allowing time for further investigation into available options and potential negotiations with SAWS.

The discussions underscored the critical nature of water resources in Texas, particularly as the city prepares for an influx of new homes. Council members acknowledged the importance of securing adequate water rights but emphasized the need for a thorough evaluation of costs and alternatives before proceeding with such a significant financial commitment.